NC H826

Prohibits employers from taking retaliatory action (discharge, suspension, demotion, salary reduction) against employees who make good-faith mandatory reports of suspected abuse, neglect, dependency, fraud, or exploitation of vulnerable persons

Requires employers to provide notice of rights and training on mandatory reporting obligations within 60 days of hiring and annually thereafter for employees who are mandatory reporters

Employees must document their mandatory report and notify their employer within 5 business days when legally permitted to qualify for protection

Allows employees to file complaints with the Commissioner of Labor, who must investigate within 90 days and may order reinstatement, lost wages, and civil penalties up to $5,000 per violation

Creates a rebuttable presumption of retaliation if adverse employment action occurs within 60 days of protected activity; effective July 1, 2025